Vol 4 Issue 2 April 2017-June 2017
Education for Sustainable Development and Meat Consumption among Inhabitants of Two Maltese Districts – A Qualitative Study
- Vol:
Vol. 4, Issue 2, April 2017 – June 2017
- Author:
Mark C Mifsud, Loraine Spiteri
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Abstract: Malta and Gozo, two small islands forming part of the Maltese archipelago, are so near yet so distinct. As the two islands possess differing geographical features, two districts were selected – the predominantly urban Northern Harbour District (NHD) in Malta and the fertile rural district of Gozo – the main aim being to determine whether there is a relation between the inhabitants’ geographical location, the extent of meat consumption and the possible links of education for sustainable development to a sustainable diet. In fact, global patterns of meat consumption differ between and within countries. In view of this, the role played by the geographical location together with other motivating factors affecting meat consumption were explored, as also the level of awareness related to the environmental impact of meat production. Awareness on how our dietary choices impact our health and the environment is vital and the key vehicle required for citizens to be informed is Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).
The qualitative data was collected through four focus groups – two for each district – with the data collected being mainly analysed through thematic analysis. Based on the results emerging from the transcribed focus group texts, this study reveals that the absolute majority of participants in both districts are meat eaters although their meat consumption patterns differ. Gozitans are still more inclined to adhere to the traditional way of life, conforming to religious practices by including a variety of non-meat local produce in their menus. While taste and health are the two most determining factors for consuming meat, chicken is the preferred meat of both districts. The absolute majority are unaware of the negative environmental impact of meat production and consumption, although Gozitans are more knowledgeable about current farming systems.
This study therefore reveals that geographical location does have an influential role in the dietary patterns of its inhabitants and that environmental attitudes are not a strong deciding factor. This study continues to uphold the vision that culture should be considered as one of the main pillars of ESD.
Keywords: Malta, Gozo, meat production and consumption, education for sustainable development, sustainable diet.
Title: Education for Sustainable Development and Meat Consumption among Inhabitants of Two Maltese Districts – A Qualitative Study
Author: Mark C Mifsud, Loraine Spiteri
ISSN 2350-1049
International Journal of Recent Research in Interdisciplinary Sciences (IJRRIS)
Paper Publications
Dimensions of Enterprise Resource Planning Systems Success in Public and Private Universities in Kenya
- Vol:
Vol. 4, Issue 2, April 2017 – June 2017
- Author:
Anthony Njina, Dr. Mike Iravo, Dr. Michael Kimwele
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Abstract: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have been adopted and implemented in the Kenyan higher education sector, with their success being described in many ways that one. Empirical studies have identified Quality, use, and benefits dimensions as suitable descriptors of success of ERP systems. This study used the results of a cross-sectional survey conducted in selected public and private universities in Kenya, coupled with theories and literature from existing Information System (IS) success models, to examine the effect of these dimensions on success of ERP systems. An understanding of ERP systems success dimensions will help to appreciate how each dimension fit in the higher education sector and provide a basis from which mitigation mechanisms can be employed to ensure success. There is need for universities to match their expectations on ERP systems with efficiency, assurance, accuracy, coupled with good support service by experienced professionals that will ensure the desired level quality is guaranteed. Engaging end-users during implementation and providing adequate training to employees have a direct impact on productive use of the ERP system. In addition, universities also need to define the strategic goals clearly before embarking on implementation, such that the process can always be steered towards the realization of benefits associated with the ERP system.
Keywords: ERP Success; Information Quality; Net Benefits; Service Quality; System Quality; Use.
Title: Dimensions of Enterprise Resource Planning Systems Success in Public and Private Universities in Kenya
Author: Anthony Njina, Dr. Mike Iravo, Dr. Michael Kimwele
ISSN 2350-1049
International Journal of Recent Research in Interdisciplinary Sciences (IJRRIS)
Paper Publications
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